Xavi insists he would not have wanted Cristiano Ronaldo to join Barcelona because the Catalans do not need players who 'fill gossip magazines'.

The Portuguese winger is set to officially join Real Madrid on Wednesday in a world-record deal after Manchester United accepted an £80million offer from the Bernabeu giants.

Xavi, though, is adamant that Champions League, Primera Liga and Copa del Rey holders Barcelona do not need Ronaldo, who has been pictured over the summer enjoying a holiday in the USA.

The Spain midfielder points to club colleagues Lionel Messi, Andres Iniesta, Thierry Henry and Samuel Eto'o - who has been linked to Manchester City - as examples of the quality in Pep Guardiola's unprecedented Treble winners.

"The best player in the world is Lionel Messi and there's no chance he will switch allegiance," Xavi said in Sport.

"We also have Andres Iniesta, Thierry Henry and Samuel Eto'o and with that kind of luxury, we are capable of doing anything.

"As for Ronaldo, I wouldn't want him here. At Barca, we do not have room for players who fill gossip magazines.

"We are hard workers and sportsmen but he, on the other hand, is uncontrollable."

(soccer365.com)

Posted by SoccerAdmin at 11:34 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

In one of the greatest matches in U.S. Soccer history, the U.S. got goals by Jozy Altidore and Clint Dempsey to stun No. 1-ranked Spain 2-0 and advance to the finals of the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup in South Africa.

The U.S. Men's National Team will face the winner of the other semifinal match between Brazil and South Africa in their first ever final in a FIFA tournament on Sunday, June 28 in Johannesburg.

Altidore ignited the upset with a fantastic show of strength and skill to score from the top of the 18-yard box in the 27th minute, while Dempsey surprised the Spaniards to provide the insurance goal in the 74th minute. Tim Howard, who returned to goal after resting for the final group match against Egypt, made eight saves to match an impressive performance by the U.S. defense, which shutout Spain to snap their world record 15-game winning streak and 35-game unbeaten streak.

"For us it's a big night,” said U.S. Men’s National Team head coach Bob Bradley. “The players all work hard. We constantly talk about reaching higher and trying to accomplish new things. Spain is a team that we have the greatest respect for. They are a super team. Their ability to play, pass and move. We knew it was a challenge, but we felt that we would have a chance and that we could win this game.

“We had a real confidence that we could try to make it harder for them than some of the other teams they have play against, and we had the weapons that could cause them some trouble. We have some speed up front. We have some guys that come out of the midfield. I think that those are all things that work for us."

"It's huge for U.S. soccer,” said Dempsey. “I think it's the first time for the men to be in the final of a major international competition. This is much sweeter because we were down and out. We came back fighting in the Egypt game. No one expected us to win this game. We fought hard, showed a lot of heart playing compact defensively, picked our moments to go forward and got some goals. We're excited by the result, and I think all the fans back home will be excited as well.”

With the two-goal cushion, the U.S. put forth an impressive defensive effort to keep the clean sheet down the stretch. Two more confident saves by Howard in the 79th and 81st minutes were his last of the game as DeMerit, Spector, Onyewu, Bocanegra, Jonathan Bornstein, Clark, Donovan and Bradley all made key tackles and clearances.

In the 86th minute, the U.S. faced a major setback when Bradley was shown a red card for a slide tackle on Xavi Alonso on a 50-50 challenge, and the midfielder will now miss Sunday’s final. It was the third time in four games the U.S. has had a player sent off.

Dempsey continues to climb the all-time scoring lists for the U.S., and by scoring his 15th career goal, he is now tied with Cobi Jones for eighth on the all-time goal list. He also leapfrogged Claudio Reyna on the all-time points list and is now tied at ninth with Eddie Lewis with 36 points.

(courtesy of ussoccer.com)

Posted by SoccerAdmin at 04:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Franck Ribery's agent believes the Bayern Munich man would choose Real Madrid over Barcelona but insists nothing will be done until next month.

Ribery is one of Europe's hottest properties, with Chelsea and Manchester United reportedly set to do battle with the Spanish pair for his signature.

Bayern insist Ribery is not for sale, but Alan Migliaccio claims his client has not given up on a move to the Bernabeu this summer.

"Ribery would prefer to play for Real Madrid than Barcelona," he told RAC-1. "The player has talked with Zinedine Zidane and he wants to play for Los Blancos for him.

"But at this moment everything is blocked because the people at Bayern are on holiday until the end of this month.

"I can't say anything else until we meet them in the next few weeks."

(Soccer365.com)

Posted by SoccerAdmin at 10:12 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Days after a shock qualification for the Confederations Cup semifinals, the USA Men's National Team is readying themselves to face a super Spain side which is currently ranked #1 in the world.

Spain has been on an runaway train of an international record 15-consecutive victories and tying Brazil’s international record with 35 games unbeaten.

The matchup at Free State Stadium in Mangaung/Bloemfontein will be aired live on Wednesday, June 24, on ESPN and Univision at 2:25 p.m. ET.

The U.S. last faced the current European champions just before the 2008 European Championship in a 1-0 loss in Santander, Spain, on June 4, 2008.

U.S. captain Carlos Bocanegra has missed the first three games game with a hamstring strain. His status for Sunday is still questionable.

Jonathan Bornstein, Michael Bradley, Oguchi Onyewu and Jonathan Spector are carrying yellow cards into the Spain match. If either is cautioned, they would miss the placement match on Sunday.

The other semifinal will be played on Thursday, June 25 with Brazil taking on the hosts, South Africa. The finalists will meet on Sunday, June 28, at 2:25 p.m. ET live on ESPN2 and Univision, while the runners-up will face off at 8:55 a.m. ET the same day in the third-place match live on ESPN2 and Univision.

This is the second trip to the Confederations Cup semifinals for the U.S., the U.S. falling to Mexico in the 1999 semifinals before topping Saudi Arabia in the third-place match. The U.S. also finished third in 1992 in Saudi Arabia when the event included only four teams.

(ussoccer.com)

Posted by SoccerAdmin at 02:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

AC Milan have reiterated that no offer has been made by Chelsea or any other club for Italy international midfielder Andrea Pirlo.

Reports in England had strongly linked the World Cup-winning playmaker with a move to Chelsea this summer where he would play under former Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti.

"We have not received any offers for Pirlo, not from Chelsea or any other club," said AC Milan club administrator Adriano Galliani.

Galliani also brushed aside rumours in the Spanish press that they are eyeing Real Madrid midfielder Fernando Gago as the ideal replacement for Pirlo.

"Pirlo is a Milan player," said Galliani. "Hence, Gago cannot be our aim.

"If Pirlo leaves then we will see."

However, Galliani revealed the Rossoneri outfit turned down a tempting offer for Brazilian forward Alexandre Pato.

"Milan this year has resisted a monumental offer for Pato," he said. "But I will not say which club made the offer."

Pato had been a reported target of Chelsea but Milan have stated that the player is not for sale.

(soccer365.com)

Posted by SoccerAdmin at 12:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Reported Chelsea target Maicon would be open to the idea of moving to Stamford Bridge, according to his agent.

The Inter Milan full-back has been a long-term target of Real Madrid but Chelsea are also thought to be weighing up a bid having missed out on Glen Johnson.

New boss Carlo Ancelotti has clearly identified the right-back position as an area of his squad that could be improved, with Maicon seemingly fitting the bill.

The 27-year-old Brazilian would likely command a fee in the region of £25million and should Chelsea lodge an offer, he would not be averse to talking over a potential move to England.

"If an attractive offer comes in, well, in this world, everything is bought and everything is sold," agent Antonio Caliendo said in Calico Mercato.

"I believe Ancelotti is one of Maicon's biggest admirers.

"He is open to offers from everyone.

"(Inter president, Massimo) Moratti is taking the right decision to assess the bids.

"Maicon is happy at Inter, but the transfer window lasts a long time.

"Something can happen every day, but for now there has been no decision."

(Soccer365.com)

Posted by SoccerAdmin at 10:58 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Mohamed Homos headed home a 40th minute header and the Egyptian side made the lone goal stand up under relentless pressure to defeat Italy 1-0 at Ellis Park in Johannesburg on Thursday. Goalkeeper Essam El Hadary provided an inspirational cleansheet.

Egypt took the advantage in the 40th minute when an unmarked Homos rose to head in a corner kick from Abo Terika. Homos perfectly played the ball low and nicked it off goalpost which Buffon could only watch.

In the second half, the Azzurri applied the pressure looking for the equalizer and it was El Hadary’s opportunity to come up big. The keeper made several saves down the stretch with three huge saves coming on seemingly unstoppable chances.

Two came from Vincenzo Iaquinta. The Juventus striker set himself up on the first quickly turning away from pressure 10 yards out with only El Hadary to beat only to see the GK get a leg on the shot destined for the far post. The second opportunity came later in the half when Iaquinta one touched a ball at the far post only to see an off balance GK get a hand on the ball and keep it clear of the line.

Second half substitute Riccardo Montolivo was robbed on the third great chance. Luca Toni pulled the defense to him on the left side of the box before slotting the ball back to an unmarked Montolivo at the penalty spot but El Hadary was able to get a hand on the ball.

And as with any good goalkeeping performance there is always help and in this match it was when El Hadary was beaten on a cross only to see it hit the corner of the woodwork and bounce clear.

Egypt started the match full of confidence having coming moments from sharing the points with Brazil in their opener and did well to share possession well into the first half but were unable to find the final touch to truly threaten Buffon’s goal.

The best threat from the Azzurri came when Tuesday’s hero Giuseppi Rossi blasted a left footed ball from 18-yards out that forced El Hadary to parry the dipping ball over the crossbar.

The win makes Group B an open race for who will advance along with Brazil with all teams still in reach of a chance to advance to the semifinals.

(Soccer365.com)

Posted by SoccerAdmin at 10:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Brazil knocked in two first half goals and coasted for an clinical 3-0 win over the United States in Confederations Cup action at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria. The U.S. was once again made to play down a man after Sacha Kljestan picked up a second half red card.

After several minutes of steady pressure, Brazil opening the scoring in the 7th minute off a Felipe Melo header. Melo easily beat Jonathan Spector to the back post and connected with Maicon’s service that left Tim Howard with no chance.

The goal could have and should have been avoided. The set piece was the direct result of a poor first touch that got away from Michael Bradley 25 yards out on the right flank. Bradley was forced to defend and was called for the foul. Replays showed that there was little if any contact on the foul other than a gentle tap on the shoulder before the Brazilian flopped to the ground.

Brazil continued to pressure but the Red, White and Blue appeared to be getting their feet under them and slowly adapting to the increased speed of this top rated international tournament with short moments of possession and build up.

But it all came crashing to an end when Robinho scored off a counter attack from a U.S. corner kick in the 20th minute. With the Oguchi Onyewu pushed up for the corner kick, Landon Donovan played the ball short to DaMarcus Beasley. The Rangers midfielder allowed the ball to slip under his foot and the counter was on.

A Brazil defender picked up the loose ball in the box and played it to Ramires at the bottom of the center circle. With only Spector back Ramires pushed the ball into U.S. territory and as Spector ran down the angel at the top of the U.S. box the Benfica player slotted the ball back to an unmarked Robinho who beat an exposed Howard.

The U.S. almost made it a hat trick of costly errors later in the half when Onyewu missed judged a long ball at the bottom of the center circle and saw the ball bounce over his head. Luis Fabiano gathered the ball and marched to goal. His shot from the top of the 18 was well saved by Howard diving to his right to corral the goal bound ball.

Bob Bradley only made one change at the halftime break sending in Conor Casey for Beasley and the U.S. looked more dangerous in the second half.

Once again the efforts were cut short when Kljestan was sent off in the 57th minute. The Chivas USA midfielder lost the ball near midfield and in trying to regain possession made a rash challenge.

With a two goal advantage and a little over 30 minutes left, the Seleção only had to continue their run of play to take the full three points but they were not done on the scoresheet adding a third goal in style and showing a glimmer of jogo bonito.

Maicon disposed second half substitute Benny Feilhaber on the sideline. The Inter Milan player turned and played the ball to the corner of the box where it was played square to another Brazil player who calmly sent a through ball back to Maicon making his run on goal. The defender then beat Johnathan Borntein and Howard to the near post from the corner of the six yard box.

The U.S. played well, or as well as they did with 11 players, for the final 10 minutes and almost pulled a goal back when Feilhaber knocked a ball off the crossbar. The attempt was set up by a fine run down the right flank from Spector.

The win was the first shutout for Brazil at the Confederations Cup in their last five matches.

The U.S. will be eliminated from the knockout phase if Italy takes a point from Thursday’s second match between the Azzurri and Egypt and even an Egypt win would make for long odds of the U.S. advancing.

Posted by SoccerAdmin at 06:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

U.S. born Giuseppe Rossi scored a brace to help Italy overcome a one goal halftime deficit and defeat 10-man United States 3-1 in Confederations Cup action in Pretoria.

FIFA World Cup winning coach Marcelo Lippi showed once again why he is one of the best in the game when he sent Rossi in for Gennaro Gattuso in the 57th minute ahead of Italy strike veteran Luca Toni. And the Villarreal striker proved the decision was a good one less than a minute later.

Rossi dispossessed Benny Feilhaber near the midfield line and pushed toward goal. With the defense backing, Rossi let fly a left footed blast from 25 yards out that eluded an outstretched Tim Howard and nicked in off the post.

The goal changed the complexion of the match from that moment forward in Italy’s advantage but the biggest game changer came in the 33rd minute of the first half when Ricardo Clark was shown a straight red card for an unnecessary and somewhat reckless but very soft challenge. The Houston Dynamo midfielder beat one Azzurri player near midfield but the ball ran away from him. Clark lunged for the ball and caught Gattuso near the knee. When the referee brought out the red card, Clark as well as the rest of the U.S. team were shocked.

The match almost went from bad to worse six minutes later when Jonathan Bornstein knocked the ball into his own net from the top of the box. The left back was making a sliding attempt to cut off a through ball and got enough of the ball to re-direct it past a charging Howard. Fortunately for the U.S., the Italian was flagged for offside pulling the ball back out.

The Stars and Stripes responded and settled down after dropping a man and took the lead off a Landon Donovan penalty kick in the 41st minute. The team captain calmly stepped up to take the penalty sending Gianluigi Buffon the wrong way before placing the ball in the right side.

Jozy Altidore set up the penalty. After receiving a well played long ball from Feilhaber, the Villarreal players pushed into the right corner of the box and cut back before being cut down by the Italian defender Chiellini.

The U.S. created few other chances on goal for the remainder of the game. The two best chances came late off a header from second half substitute Charlie Davis and a long range effort from Clint Dempsey.

After the Rossi goal the Azzurri were in control. The question was whether the U.S. could weather the storm and take a share of the points.

Daniele De Rossi gave Italy the lead on another long range shot in the 72nd minute. The midfielder, infamously remembered as the Italian red card in the last match up against the United States in the 2006 FIFA World Cup for his elbow to Brian McBride, sent a low hard drive from 25+ yards out that an off balanced Oguchi Onyewu could only desperately try and knock away at the penalty spot before it went into the side corner passed the outstretched hand of Howard.

Rossi finished off the scoring well into stoppage time with a right footed half volley. Andrea Pirlo set up the goal beating Jay Demerit on the sideline before dribbling to the endline unchallenged. Pirlo found Rossi charging in the box and picked him out with a well floated chip.

(Soccer365.com)

Posted by SoccerAdmin at 10:50 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

Kaka completed his brace with a 90th minute penalty to lift Brazil to a 4-3 win over Egypt in the Group B opener at Free State Stadium in the Confederations Cup. The recent Real Madrid signing opening the scoring on a fine individual effort in the 5th minute.

The match was off to a fast pace with Kaka’s opener leaving many wondering whether there would be a repeat performance of the Spain vs New Zealand match from Sunday. But the Pharaohs were up to the challenge and answered in the 9th minute on Mohamed Zidan’s header. Mohamed Aboutrika was allowed too much space on the right wing and found Zidan at the back post.

With all the talk about the Seleção's improved defensive set up at this soccer tournament, the ease with which Egypt worked down the right flank was surprising.

Brazil had their own answers in the attack scoring off of two set pieces to establish a two goal margin at the break. Luis Fabiano and Juan each headed in services from Elano off a free kick from outside the box and a corner kick, respectively.

The CONMEBOL side appeared to have the match in hand coming out after the break but it was Egypt that took the game to Brazil. And the pressure and intensity paid off when Egypt drew level with goals from Mohamed Shawky in the 54th minute followed by a second from Zidan in the 55th minute.

Over the final 35 minutes both teams created chances but it was Egypt that looked the better side.

The match looked destined for a draw until Brazil created a final chance for Kaka and it came once again from a set piece. Second half substitute Alexandro Pato received a corner kick at the back post and his goal bound volley was parried off the line by Elmohamadi. The midfielder, who was also a second half substitute, was shown a straight red card for the play.

Kaka stepped up and cool knocked in the winner past a diving Essam El Hadary. The Egyptian goalkeeper guessed correctly but Kaka's ball was perfectly played to the right corner leaving the keeper no chance.

(Soccer365.com)

Posted by SoccerAdmin at 06:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Daniel Alves has called on Barcelona to sign Manchester City star Robinho, and insists Real Madrid's spending is not a concern at the Nou Camp.

Barca's bitter rivals have followed up their £56million capture of AC Milan star Kaka by having a world record bid for Cristiano Ronaldo accepted by Manchester United.

Domestic and European champions Barcelona stole the plaudits last season for some stunning football and for all of Real's lavish spending, buccaneering Brazilian full-back Alves believes his side will top the pile again next term.

He was, though, willing to concede that if Pep Guardiola was looking to add reinforcements to his treble winners then he could do worse than look at compatriot Robinho, who only joined Manchester City from Madrid last summer.

"The ones who have money and can allow those luxuries, they do it. That is them," Marca quote him as saying.

"At Barcelona we are not worried because we are the ones who are going to be defending our titles and it is normal that others strengthen so they can try and win.

"If I could recommend players, I would ask that they hired all the players here in the national team. As that is not possible, I think a player that would fit perfectly into our team would be Robinho.

"But we don't have to worry about that. Our team is doing very well, we are the champions of Europe."

(Soccer365.com)

Posted by SoccerAdmin at 11:07 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Barcelona finance director Xavier Sala i Martin is bewildered as to how Real Madrid are funding their summer spending spree.

With a reported transfer budget of 300million euros at their disposal, Madrid president Florentino Perez has this week set about creating a second 'galacticos' era.

The Spanish giants had a world-record bid of £80million for Portugal winger Cristiano Ronaldo accepted by Manchester United on Thursday, hot on the heels of Monday's 68million euros acquisition of Brazil playmaker Kaka from AC Milan.

And Sala i Martin, whose team finished nine points clear of Madrid at the Primera Division summit last month, is puzzled by how the purchases are being financed.

He told Radio Station RAC1: "I don't know where the 300million euros that Florentino Perez expects to invest on signings are coming from.

"He says he will recover that money by selling shirts but, in order to do that, he will have to sell 30million shirts. That is impossible."

Sala i Martin is stunned Madrid are able to spend so much money in such a difficult economic climate.

He added: "I guess someone will have to give him that money and it would be good for him to explain where it will come from.

"How can it be that a football team is loaned so much money, considering the current financial crisis in the country and the policy of restricting credits that banks are currently following?

"I can assure you that we will not pay 65million euros for a player.

"For that amount we would buy the whole Barcelona team that won the Champions League in Rome."

(Soccer365.com)

Posted by SoccerAdmin at 02:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)

Manchester United have accepted an £80million bid for Cristiano Ronaldo from Real Madrid and he will now travel to Spain for transfer talks.

Ronaldo has long been a target for the Spanish giants, whose president

Florentino Perez vowed earlier this week to do "everything possible" to take the 24-year-old to the Bernabeu.

A statement on from Manchester United on Thursday morning read: "Manchester United have received a world-record, unconditional offer of £80million for Cristiano Ronaldo from Real Madrid.'

"At Cristiano's request - who has again expressed his desire to leave - and after discussion with the player's representatives, United have agreed to give Real Madrid permission to talk to the player.

"Matters are expected to be concluded by 30 June. The club will not comment until further notice."

Posted by SoccerAdmin at 09:22 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)

Robinho has cast doubt over his Manchester City future by admitting any player would relish the chance to play for Barcelona.

The Brazilian left La Liga last summer, joining City from Real Madrid for a British record fee of £32.5million.

Robinho struck 14 Premier League goals during his debut campaign in England and he recently stated his commitment to City.

However, the forward has been quoted as conceding that the opportunity to play for Barca would be an attractive proposition for any player.

"So far, there has only been speculation," he told Sport. "There is nothing concrete and I haven't received any offers.

"The only thing I can say is that Barcelona are a great team and everybody would love to play for them.'

Robinho did, however, insist he remains 'comfortable' with his decision to swap Madrid for Manchester.

"I left because I was not happy. I do not regret the decision and I'm comfortable at Manchester City."

(Soccer365.com)

Posted by SoccerAdmin at 11:04 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Kaka admitted David Beckham played a key role in his decision to make a world-record £59million move to Real Madrid.

The brilliant Brazilian admitted he had received plenty of advice on the move from former Real player and Perez signing Beckham, who spent a short spell at Milan on loan earlier this year.

He also revealed that although the deal was only announced on Monday night, it had been in the pipeline for some time.

"I spoke to some friends, like Beckham, who has already played for Real. He said it's a fantastic place to play. I spoke to him this past week and he kept helping me, he said I made a positive choice for my career's growth," Kaka revealed.

"I wanted this move to be announced sooner. For me it's a relief that it has been announced now, although I have always be 100% focused on the national side.

"I've been weighing up the offer from Real Madrid a lot. It's an important project for me to continue growing in my career. I'm not going to Real Madrid for money, as I had other offers. But I knew I would only leave Milan to play for Real Madrid.

"Only small details were missing, such as the medical exams I passed this morning. The deal was sealed long time ago".

Kaka also said he hoped to put an end to Barcelona's dominance of Spanish and European football, after the Merengues' arch-rivals swept all before them this season en route to claiming Spain's first league, cup and Champions League treble.

"This will be a tough season at Real Madrid, after all that Messi conquered with Barcelona," he said.

"They're the big favourites and deservedly so. I hope Barcelona's hegemony will end in the coming years. Real Madrid will build a great team to win titles again, as it's the club's history"

Meanwhile he revealed he fell uncomfortable taking on the number five jersey once worn by Zinedine Zidane.

Perez had admitted he would like to see the Brazilian playmaker take on the shirt, but Kaka said he would not feel comfortable doing so.

He said: "Wearing the number five would be a great responsibility. Zidane was a great player, both for Real Madrid and for France, and I wouldn't like to wear the same number as he did.

"We're going to wait a bit before deciding which one to use."

And finally he had words of gratitude to Milan for launching his career in Europe, while he was also elusive about whether he would end his career in Madrid.

"I will be 33 years old by the time the (Madrid) contract ends, with the World Cup in Brazil in 2014 still to come. Lots of things will happen," he said.

"I'm not thinking today in ending my career at 33. I expect to write history there and sign a new contract, who knows, until 35. May be I'll retire then."

He added: "I want to thank Milan, as they were the club who put me on the international scene. They gave me the opportunity to become a big name in Europe.

"I'm happy to leave Milan by the front door, with a lot of friends. It has been very emotional to see what the Milan fans have done for me."

(Soccer365.com)

Posted by SoccerAdmin at 05:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

ESPN and ESPN2 will combine to televise all matches of the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup, June 14-28. Check out the complete schedule below...

Game times – 9:55 a.m. and 2:25 p.m.

June 14 S Africa v Iraq 9:55 ESPN2
June 14 N Zealand v Spain 2:25 ESPN2
June 15 Brazil v Egypt 9:55 ESPN2
June 15 USA v Italy 2:25 ESPN
June 17 Spain v Iraq 9:55 ESPN2
June 17 S Africa v N Zealand 2:25 ESPN2
June 18 USA v Brazil 9:55 ESPN2
June 18 Egypt v Italy 2:25 ESPN2
June 20 Span v S Africa 2:25 ESPN2
June 20 Iraq v N Zealand 2:25 ESPN 360
June 21 Egypt v USA 2:25 ESPN2
June 21 Italy v Brazil 2:25 ESPN

Semifinals
June 24 A1 v B2 2:25 ESPN
June 25 A2 v B1 2:25 ESPN

Third Place Match
June 28 Semi Losers 8:55 ESPN2

Final
June 28 Semifinal Winners 2:25 ESPN2

Posted by SoccerAdmin at 04:43 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

After weeks of speculation, Kaka’s move to Real Madrid was made official on Monday. The 27-year-old Brazilian is believed to have signed for around £59m ($94.05m).

Kaka is currently in Brazil preparing for Brazil’s FIFA World Cup qualifier against Paraguay and the upcoming Confederations Cup in South Africa. The playmaker was glad that the move which has been in the works for weeks was finally announced.

Speaking at a press conference in Brazil, Kaka said: "I can officially say I'm a Real Madrid player. My professional link with AC Milan finishes now, but my sentimental link will never end."

"Real Madrid intend to build a great team, with historic players such as Raul and Casillas. We will make history again, both in Spain and Europe. I guess the sport project is very good."

Kaka is eager to make the move to the ‘new’ galactico team under returning Real president Florentino Perez. Perez was behind the building of the original galacticos signing big name players such as Zinedine Zidane, Luis Figo, Ronaldo and David Beckham and hopes to return the top names to the team. Cristiano Ronaldo, Xabi Alonso, David Villa and Franck Ribery have all been rumored to be in the sights of Perez.

Kaka said that he had spoken with David Beckham about the move.

(Soccer365.com)

Posted by SoccerAdmin at 10:18 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Bayern Munich chief Franz Beckenbauer wants the future of Franck Ribery to be decided to prevent a long-running soap opera this summer.

The France international has been linked with a host of clubs, including Real Madrid, Chelsea and Manchester United, but Bayern general manager Uli Hoeness has sent out mixed signals by first claiming he was not for sale at any price and then expressing his willingness to speak to new Real president Florentino Perez.

Beckenbauer wants the issue resolved, either by signing Ribery to a new contract or selling him.

"I can see only two solutions: Ribery extends his contract so the issue is dealt with or we release him," he said. "I rate Ribery alongside Cristiano Ronaldo and (Lionel) Messi as the best footballers in the world at present," he added in the Bild newspaper.

"If he were to leave, it would be the second huge loss for the Bundesliga after Diego.

"However, if Ribery wants to leave, then it will be hard for us to keep hold of him."

Nevertheless, Beckenbauer does not believe Bayern's world would fall apart without the 26-year-old.

"So many so-called irreplaceable players have gone yet football has still moved on," he said.

"Obviously it would be a shame, though, and it is hard to imagine Bayern being better without Ribery."

Real are believed to be preparing a bid which would tempt Bayern's new Dutch coach Louis van Gaal by offering his two compatriots Arjen Robben and Wesley Sneijder offered together with a sizeable sum for a man who, according to Hoeness, has just one of his legs valued at 50 million euros.

(Soccer365.com)

Posted by SoccerAdmin at 10:21 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Barcelona are reportedly in talks with Inter Milan striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic, and are lining up a £20million bid for Javier Mascherano.

According to Spanish press, the Catalan giants have opened talks with the Sweden international over a move to the Nou Camp.

The 27-year-old has been linked with a number of high profile clubs such as Manchester United, Chelsea and Real Madrid.

Barcelona, though, appear to be favourites to land the striker's signature, although a deal has not yet materialised.

"Zlatan is not worried," Ibrahimovic's agent Mino Raiola told Sportbladet.

"I don't know which club will be first to reach an agreement with Inter. Barcelona, Chelsea, Manchester United or Real Madrid.

"It's a matter of which club wants him and how much they want him."

Barca have also been linked with a possible move for Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano.

The Primera Liga champions are rumoured to be lining up a £20million move for the Reds star in the summer transfer window.

(Soccer365.com)

Posted by SoccerAdmin at 11:20 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Chelsea have dismissed as "totally untrue" reports they have tabled a world transfer record offer of £73.5million for AC Milan superstar Kaka.

Kaka has been strongly linked with a move to Real Madrid following Florentino Perez's return as president, but speculation has since arose that the Blues have entered the race.

However Chelsea, who have just appointed former AC Milan boss Carlo Ancelotti as their new manager, insisted on Wednesday evening that they have not tabled any offer for Kaka.

A statement on the club's official website read: "We have never made an offer to AC Milan for Kaka and therefore not one at this extraordinary level.

"As a consequence we have not discussed a salary with the player either.

"Any reports to the contrary are totally untrue."

(Soccer365.com)

Posted by SoccerAdmin at 04:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

The broadcast for tonight’s U.S. Men’s National Team FIFA World Cup qualifier at Costa Rica has been moved to ESPN2.

The broadcast will now include a 30 minute pregame show starting at 9:30 p.m. ET with kickoff slated for 10:06 p.m. ET (8:06 p.m. local).

The U.S. is looking for its first win in Costa Rica, and arrived in San Jose on Monday to begin training at Estadio Ricardo Saprissa. The U.S. returns home on Saturday to face Honduras in Chicago at 7 p.m. CT in a match televised live on ESPN and Galavision.

(ussoccer.com)

Posted by SoccerAdmin at 04:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

AC Milan star Kaka has insisted he does not want to leave the San Siro, as reports suggest he is set to follow Carlo Ancelotti to Chelsea.

Speculation has suggested that informal talks over a £70million deal have already started as the Blues look to tempt the Brazilian to the Premier League, while returning Real Madrid president Florentino Perez is also a long-term admirer.

Ancelotti's appointment as manager at Stamford Bridge was confirmed on Monday and the Italian is set to begin a three-year contract at the beginning of July with the aim of securing the UEFA Champions League.

It is rumored that Kaka is top of the 49-year-old's wanted list as he plans tweaks to his inherited, aging squad, with Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich understood to be prepared to spend big this summer.

But Kaka, who broke into the Milan side under former boss Ancelotti, insists he is staying in Italy, telling Gazzetta dello Sport: "I say it for the last time. I don't want to leave Milan."

The playmaker appeared to be on the verge of a world-record switch to Manchester City in the winter transfer window before the deal collapsed as Milan opted out of selling.

Kaka's potential move to Eastlands was shrouded in controversy as it was suggested the player was being forced out of Italy against his wishes.

The 27-year-old has now stated that he will make no further comment about his future so that there is no confusion over his desire to stay at Milan.

"In this period I prefer to remain silent because I don't want to be misunderstood," he added. "To the millions of Milan supporters, I say that I have made my choice. I want to stay."

Kaka admits that he is in a debt of gratitude to Ancelotti after he was offered the opportunity to shine.

"I owe him a lot. He opened the doors for me in Italian football," he concluded.

(Soccer365.com)

Posted by SoccerAdmin at 11:21 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)

Real Madrid legend Zinedine Zidane has returned to the Bernabeu after accepting an advisory role under president Florentino Perez's new regime.

The former Los Blancos star will act as an adviser to the new president, following his appointment on Monday.

Zidane was taken to Real by Perez in 2001, during his first stint at the helm of the capital club.

Meanwhile, Jorge Valdano, who previously worked as sports director under Perez, has been appointed as director general and assistant to the president.

Miguel Pardeza takes over from the already-departed Predrag Mijatovic as the club's new sporting director.

Perez, who helped to oversee the 'Galacticos' era at Real during his first spell at the club, has also outlined his ambitious plans for the future.

"We will devote all our effort to building a spectacular team, with great players who are role models on and off the pitch," he said.

"A club where ethics are indestructible, and where solidarity will be a basic cornerstone of behavior.

"The challenge that today begins for all of us is possibly the biggest and most difficult that we have ever taken on, but I assure you that we will make this Real Madrid a great symbol and example.

"We are going to rebuild and reassert the dreams of all Madridistas. We have a lot of work ahead. There is a lot to do, so let us begin."

(Soccer365.com)

Posted by SoccerAdmin at 10:14 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

Carlo Ancelotti has paid tribute to newly-retired Paolo Maldini, the legendary defender he coached for eight years at AC Milan.

Maldini capped a 24-year career with Sunday's 2-0 triumph at Fiorentina - a result which ensured the Rossoneri direct qualification for the group phrase of next season's Champions League.

"The friendship with Maldini will remain as will the conviction of having dealt with a great champion and a splendid person," said Ancelotti, who has left the club for Chelsea.

The 40-year-old Maldini has won five Champions League titles, two Intercontinental Cups, four European Super Cups and seven Serie A crowns. Maldini also lifted the FIFA Club World Cup in 2007.

On the international stage, he earned a record 126 caps for Italy before retiring after the 2002 World Cup.

"He is a player that doesn't speak much but has always been present in the locker room," Ancelotti said.

"In eight years I think he has been the only player whom I have never fined for arriving late.

"He has loved his work and has done it with great enthusiasm, otherwise you would not be able to play at this level up to 41."

Maldini will celebrate his 41st birthday later this month.

Milan have retired Maldini's number three jersey, although it may appear on the Giuseppe Meazza pitch again if any of his sons make it into the senior team. One son, Christian, plays for Milan's youth team.

(Soccer365.com)

Posted by SoccerAdmin at 08:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

Chelsea have confirmed the appointment of Carlo Ancelotti as manager on a three-year deal, describing him as "the outstanding candidate".

The Italian succeeds Guus Hiddink, whose short stint at Stamford Bridge ended after Saturday's FA Cup final victory over Everton.

Ancelotti, who has long been linked with the Stamford Bridge post, left Milan by mutual consent on Sunday.

Former Champions League winner Ancelotti will officially take charge on July 1.

A statement on the club's website read: "Chelsea Football Club is delighted to announce that Carlo Ancelotti has agreed to become our new manager.

"He has signed a three year contract and will start on July 1, 2009.

"Carlo was the outstanding candidate for the job. He has proved over a long period his ability to build teams that challenged for, and have been successful in, major domestic and European competitions.

"He also had a highly successful playing career in those competitions and therefore brings unparalleled all round experience to the job.

"We are sure everybody at Chelsea will give him a warm welcome and we are all looking forward to working with him."

Ancelotti, 50 later this month, twice won the Champions League, in 2003 and 2007, and the Serie A title in 2004 during his eight years in charge at Milan.

He has previously coached at Reggiana, Parma and Juventus.

His track record of success dates back to his playing days when he also won two league titles and two European Cups with Milan.

He becomes the fourth Chelsea manager in 21 months following Jose Mourinho, Avram Grant, Luiz Felipe Scolari and Hiddink.

(Soccer365.com)

Posted by SoccerAdmin at 12:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)